Gov. Abercrombie vetoes 3 bills; feral bird bill survives

July 10, 2013

HONOLULU (AP) - Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday told lawmakers he would veto three bills but he signed another bill that outlaws the excessive feeding of feral birds as a public health nuisance.

One of the three vetoed bills is related to the state building code. Abercrombie objects to it because it seeks funding from the Hurricane Relief Fund. The governor says using the fund for something other than its primary purpose would set a bad precedent.

Lawmakers said the governor signed the feral bird feed bill on Monday.

This new law, which takes effect immediately, will help people suffering from the smell and health problems created when their neighbors feed large flocks of pigeons, said state Rep. Gregg Takayama, a Democrat who represents Pearl City and Waimalu.

"This law will help provide welcome relief to Pearl City residents who have been plagued for years by neighbors whose excessive and inconsiderate bird feeding has attracted flocks of several hundred pigeons, whose droppings and feathers create odors, property damage and aggravation of health problems," Takayama said in a statement.

Some Kailua residents have also had similar problems.

Twelve other measures will become law without the governor's signature, including one that would provide for a nonpartisan primary as well as a general election for Office of Hawaiian Affairs board members.

Currently, there's no primary election for OHA board members, only a general election.

The Governor's Office said Abercrombie was in some cases encouraging lawmakers to further review the measures and consider taking additional action during the next session.

Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, who is acting governor while the governor visits Taiwan, signed seven bills into law on Tuesday.

One appropriates $6 million for an investment program promoting the creation of competitive high-growth companies in Hawaii.

Another continues a tax credit for qualified high-technology research activities for six years.